Tohorā: The Southern White Whale

An excellent book that has accurately and empathetically captured a true and factual account of the history surrounding the Right wales and their presence and existence in Aotearoa. This would be a very useful resource to use in all classrooms and has been written with ‘easy to read’ phrases for children to read independently without losing its meaning or factual information. This book would appeal to all but I believe boys would specifically enjoy this style of writing and complimentary illustrations. The extra information given in the illustrations adds to the story and creates interest and inspires imagination in the reader. I would definitely use this as a teaching resource and would have a copy at home to maintain a record of New Zealand history. The many references in and around New Zealand allow the reader to make prior connections to their own knowledge and experience which further captures their interest and entices them to finish the book. I would recommend this book to all.

Title: Tohorā: The Southern White Whale

Author & Illustrator: Ned Barraud

Publisher: Potton & Burton

ISBN: 9781988550060

RRP:$29.99

Format: Hardback

Date of Publication: October 2019

Age Range: 4 and up

Reviewer’s Name: Megan Ide-Neill

Reviewer: Te Reo Māori and Kapahaka teacher, Remarkables Primary School, Central Otago

How are you recommending this book? Highly recommending

First sentence: Two hundred years ago, the mighty tohorā, or southern right whale, was a common sight off the coast of Aotearoa.

You can buy this book here